Apology: Headline misrepresented Diaconate call to service

Submitted
January 1, 0001 | 12:00 AM

In the homily at Mass for the Ordination of Deacons on June 2, Archbishop Robert J. Carlson quoted the Prayer of Consecration, which he would use in ordaining each of 25 men to the permanent diaconate.

“May (these men) excel in every virtue: in love that is sincere, in concern for the sick and the poor, in unassuming authority, in self-discipline and in holiness of life. May they imitate Jesus who came not to be served but to serve.”

“Not to be served but to serve” is the higher calling not only of clergy and consecrated life but of Roman Catholics everywhere in the universal Church — to humble oneself and serve others without distinction, regardless of race, status or wealth.

Service to others is at the heart of the Catholic faith, and our headline accompanying the story about the ordination of deacons incorrectly stated this important calling (Living Our Faith, Page 13, June 11-17). The error embarrassed Archbishop Robert J. Carlson, the newly ordained deacons and the diaconate community, who selflessly put others first to serve. Similarly, the incorrect headline diminished the service ethic of clergy and religious, social justice and health care workers, teachers, public servants — all Catholics who give freely of themselves in service.